Visit Sri Lanka

A land of stunning beauty and diversity, with a welcoming local population. Whether you want to bask in the golden beaches, hike in the misty mountains, or explore the exotic rainforests, you will find them to be just a few hours from Colombo, the Island nation’s capital.

Discovering the wonders of Sri Lanka is now easier than ever. Sri Lankan Airlines offers direct flights to Sri Lanka from around the world, including direct flights to Colombo. Find out more about the place we call home.

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So many places to go and so many things to see!

Colombo

A bustling hub that rarely ever sleeps with an undeniable charm of its own. Visit Colombo, the country’s economic capital, and a melting pot of culture.

For shopping in Sri Lanka, head to Pettah’s vibrant and bohemian markets where you can find anything and haggle for the price tag you want, or indulge in a shopping spree at one of the many shopping malls in the heart of the city.

Enjoy a refined experience with 5-star hotels, and boutique accommodations while immersing yourself in the local Sri Lankan food culture. Don’t forget to explore galleries, museums, and the colonial heritage in the fort area with its iconic architecture.

The Island culinary adventure begins!

Bursting with aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and spicy, Sri Lankan food is an absolute flavour fiesta.

Sri Lankan culinary journey draws inspiration from diverse ethnic influences and historical ties to the oceanic silk road. From the fiery kick of chicken or fish curry to the comforting hug of coconut sambol and hoppers, each bite is a celebration of Sri Lankan local culture and culinary mastery.

While you might savour classics like milk rice, and steamed Lamprais packed in banana leaf, and experience the rhythmic preparation of Kottu rotti in Colombo, the truly unmissable authenticity awaits at its places of origin, where every bite tells a story of tradition and innovation.

Soak up some sun and join in the fun!

Sri Lanka is a land of eternal sunshine and never-ending stretches of golden sand. Try surfing in Arugambay, snorkelling and diving in Hikkaduwa, or embark on whale and dolphin watching in Mirissa.

Savour the island’s expertly crafted seafood, steeped in seafaring traditions. If experiencing the local life in the coastal area is your thing, don’t miss a chance to try your hand at stilt-fishing off the south coast, or mingle with the seafaring folks and experience their way of life in the sea.

Brush up on your history

Kings, queens, brutal wars, enigmatic plots, political kidnappings, malicious demons, primal gods, gigantic structures that have stood the test of time, and unsolved mysteries - the history of Sri Lanka is one of intrigue and fascination.

The best places to visit in Sri Lanka to immerse yourself in the Island’s intriguing history, are the ruins at Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, the architectural marvel of Sigiriya, known as the 8th Wonder of the world, and the Dutch Fort in Galle. Head to Kandy, the last kingdom, to witness the Esala perahara, a grand procession celebrating the crown jewel, the sacred Tooth of the Buddha which is housed in the Temple of the Tooth relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The wildlife awaits…

Discover the unparalleled wildlife in Sri Lanka, which boasts one of the highest rates of biological endemism in the world. Spot Elephants in Uda Walawa, leopards in Yala, and Wilpattu.

Trekking in Sri Lanka offers rainforest adventures in the Horton Plains or Sinharaja. The latter is home to many inhabitants of the wild including rare reptiles and insects, and for bird watching in Sri Lanka, you should head to Kumana Sanctuary or take a boat ride to the Muthurajawela Marshlands.

The best time to visit Sri Lanka, if you wish for a unique experience with baby elephants is in July and August, when elephants gather at the Minneriya tank.

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